Tanqueray 10 70cl

Tanqueray No. Ten stands as modern London Dry excellence, a gin where fresh botanicals distilled in the Tiny Ten still - a diminutive copper vessel of rather romantic provenance - produce something utterly distinctive. Rather than pursuing complexity through botanical multiplication, Tanqueray No. Ten embraces a philosophy of precise restraint: whole fresh citrus fruits and chamomile distilled separately to capture their volatile oils at peak expression, creating a spirit of remarkable clarity and brightness.

The botanical philosophy centres on what emerges when fresh grapefruits and limes become primary concern rather than supporting players. Four distillations refine these ingredients into whisper-quiet elegance - each pass through the Tiny Ten still concentrating character whilst eliminating rough edges. Juniper provides essential spine, naturally, but the real story belongs to those citrus fruits: whole grapefruits and limes distilled to capture their essential character, alongside chamomile bringing subtle floral delicacy and unexpected herbal warmth. Coriander seed contributes spice without insistence; other botanicals provide supporting sophistication rather than competing for attention.

The result is gin of remarkable citrus-forward expression married to considerable refinement. The nose announces this immediately: fresh grapefruit and lime dominate with bright clarity, whilst chamomile contributes delicate floral whispers and subtle herbaceous warmth. The palate confirms this citrus philosophy: initial brightness from grapefruit and lime transitions into subtle botanical complexity, where coriander spice and juniper's piney structure provide architectural depth. The texture is clean and refined, the finish crisp and utterly satisfying - that grapefruit character persisting elegantly with chamomile's gentle floral echo lingering gracefully.

How to Serve

Tanqueray No. Ten shines brilliantly in a properly executed Martini, where its citrus character can demonstrate why it's become a bartender's favourite. Alternatively, pair it with premium tonic and a generous grapefruit slice, or enjoy it neat, chilled, in a proper glass where its remarkable aromatic profile can fully unfold. The citrus character particularly rewards contemplative sipping.

Where to Drink It

Dukes Bar in St James's, because this is a Martini gin and that is a Martini bar. The American Bar at The Savoy for the same drink with more piano. The Connaught Bar for the trolley and the theatre.

Food Pairings

Oysters, with a grapefruit-heavy Martini rather than lemon — the citrus in the gin and the salinity in the shell are a genuinely great pairing and nobody expects it. Potted crab on toast if you'd rather sit down.